Reclosable seal with handle

ABSTRACT

A container has a reclosable zipper seal. The zipper includes a slider that facilitates opening and closing of the zipper. The container also has a handle. The handle may be secured to the zipper. The handle does not compromise the utility, function, or performance of the container, the zipper, or the slider. The handle may remain secured to the container after the container has been opened. The container may also include a tamper evidence device, such as a membrane, which provides an indication as to whether the container has been substantially opened. The tamper evidence device may be part of the container, the zipper, the slider, or combinations thereof.

BACKGROUND

Reclosable seals are used in a variety of applications, one example being for sealing the opening of a bag. A variety of reclosable seals currently exist, but no one prior to the inventors has created or used the invention described in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the present invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify the same elements. The drawings and detailed description which follow are intended to be merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a bag having a reclosable seal with a handle.

FIG. 2 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of a tamper evident reclosable seal with a handle.

FIG. 3 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of a tamper evident reclosable seal with an alternative handle configuration.

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of a bag having a reclosable seal with discrete handle members.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which includes by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. It should therefore be understood that the inventors contemplate a variety of embodiments that are not explicitly disclosed herein.

FIGS. 1-4 depict a bag (30) having a reclosable seal in the form of a zipper (10). Bag (30) has a right wall (32) and a left wall (34). Similarly, zipper (10) has a right interlocking section (12) and a left interlocking section (14). Right interlocking section (12) of zipper (10) is secured to right wall (32) of bag (30), while left interlocking section (14) of zipper (10) is secured to left wall (34) of bag (30). In one embodiment, interlocking sections (12, 14) comprise a pair of profiles. Other suitable interlocking sections (12, 14) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, including but not limited to zippers with metal teeth.

As used herein, terms such as “right,” “left,” “above,” “below,” and the like are used simply to refer to the relative positioning of elements in the drawings, and are not intended to be limiting in any way. While the present example includes a bag (30), it will be appreciated that zipper (10) or any other reclosable seal may be used on any other type of container or receptacle, including but not limited to envelopes, pouches, sacks, and the like. As used herein, the terms “container” and “receptacle” shall be read to include anything configured to hold and contain an object or materials. To the extent that the container is a bag, it will be appreciated that any type of bag may be used, including but not limited to gusseted, non-gusseted, paper, plastic, multi-laminate, woven polypropylene bags, and the like. In one embodiment, the container comprises a bag (30) having a plurality of layers, with at least one of the layers being a paper material, and at least one other layer (e.g., the outer layer) being a heat-sealable material. Other suitable containers, materials, and configurations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

It will be appreciated that interlocking sections (12, 14) of zipper (10) may be secured to bag (30) in any suitable fashion. In one embodiment, interlocking sections (12, 14) are secured to bag (30) by a pre-applied, heat-activated adhesive. Such adhesive may be activated by hot air, by hot rolling, or by any other suitable method. In another embodiment, interlocking sections (12, 14) are secured to bag (30) by an epoxy bond. In this embodiment, a first compound is applied to each interlocking section (12, 14) and a second compound is applied to the portions of bag (30) that will ultimately come into contact with interlocking sections (12, 14). The first and second compounds are configured such that, when joined together, the compounds form a physical bond. Accordingly, a bond is formed when interlocking sections (12, 14) are placed in contact with the aforementioned portions of bag (30), thereby securing interlocking sections (12, 14) to bag (30). Alternatively, any other technique may be used to secure interlocking sections (12, 14) to bag (30), including but not limited to heat-sealing, stitching, adhesives, press-sealing, cold welding, pressure bonding, double-sided tape. Where interlocking sections (12, 14) are stitched to bag (30), it will be appreciated that such stitching may include, by way of example only, sewing or ultrasonic stitching. Still other suitable techniques for securing interlocking sections (12, 14) to bag (30) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In the present example, interlocking sections (12, 14) comprise an extruded plastic material. Of course, interlocking sections (12, 14) may be formed of any other suitable material, and by any other suitable process. Respective ends (18, 20) of interlocking sections (12, 14) may be secured together by any suitable technique, including but not limited to a hot knife, hot glue, other adhesives, heat sealing, stitching, cold welding, pressure bonding, hooks, tape, clamps, rivets, or any other suitable technique or device.

It will be appreciated that zipper (10) is operable to seal bag (30). In the present example, such sealing occurs upon closure of zipper (10) by engagement of right interlocking section (12) with left interlocking section (14). As used herein, the term “seal” and its variants shall be read to generally imply the prevention of at least a substantial portion material (e.g., solids, gases, and/or liquids) from escaping or entering the container. However, such a “seal” need not per se be perfectly “air tight” or “water tight” as those phrases are commonly used and understood.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, right interlocking section (12) and left interlocking section (14) each have a pair of complimentary teeth (22) extending the length of the respective interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, each interlocking section (12, 14) could have a single tooth (12), rather than a plurality of teeth (22). In the present example, closure of zipper (10) results from engagement of teeth (22), thereby effecting a seal of bag (30). In right interlocking section (12), a hinge (24) is located adjacent teeth (22). It will be appreciated that hinge (24) may prevent inadvertent disengagement of teeth (22), such as by outward separation of walls (32, 34) of bag (30) and/or interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, left interlocking section (14) may include a hinge (24) in addition to or as an alternative to right interlocking section (12) having hinge. Alternatively, any suitable alternative to hinge (24) may be used, including but not limited to no hinge (24) at all. Right interlocking section (12) further comprises a post (23), which is positioned adjacent the lowermost tooth (22) of left interlocking section (14) when teeth (22) are engaged. Each interlocking section (12, 14) of the present example further comprises a flange region (11), which is adjacent teeth (22).

Engagement or disengagement of interlocking sections (12, 14) at teeth (22) may be effected or otherwise facilitated by a slider (16), which is shown in FIGS. 1-4. Slider (16) is configured to slide longitudinally along zipper (10) to bring interlocking sections (12, 14) together into engagement or force interlocking sections (12, 14) apart for disengagement, depending upon which direction slider (16) is slid. Sliders (16) are well known in the art, and any type of slider (16) may be used. In one embodiment, slider (20) comprises a glider. In the present example, each interlocking section (12, 14) has a guide (13), with which slider (16) is engaged. Of course, slider (16) is optional, and any suitable alternative to slider (16) may be used, including but not limited to no slider (16) at all.

As is also shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the outer surface of right wall (32) of bag (30) is secured to the inner surface of right interlocking section (12) in flange region (11); while the outer surface of left wall (34) of bag (30) is secured to the inner surface of left interlocking section (14) in flange region (11). In another embodiment, walls (32, 34) of bag (30) are secured to the outer surfaces of respective interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, walls (32, 34) may be secured to interlocking sections (12, 14) in any other configuration. In yet another embodiment, right wall (32) of bag (30) and right interlocking section (12) are a homogenous continuum of material (e.g., a single piece); and left wall (34) of bag (30) and left interlocking section (14) are a homogenous continuum of material. Still other suitable relative configurations of walls (32, 34) of bag (30) and interlocking sections (12, 14) of zipper (10) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In FIGS. 1-3, bag (30) is shown having a handle member (40). Handle member (40) comprises a strip of material that has a length approximately equal to that of interlocking sections (12, 14). In the present example, handle member (40) is comprised of the same material comprising interlocking sections (12, 14), such as plastic. Alternatively, handle member (40) may be comprised of a different material. Handle member (40) is shown as being secured to left interlocking section (14). Of course, handle member (40) could be secured to any other component of zipper (10) or bag (30), including but not limited to right interlocking section (12) or either bag wall (32 or 34). In addition, while bag (30) of the present example has only one handle member (40), it will be appreciated that any other number of handle members (40) may be used. By way of example only, a handle member (40) may be secured to each interlocking section (12, 14) and/or each bag wall (32, 34). Alternatively, any other configuration may be used.

As shown, handle member (40) is secured to left interlocking section (14), which has upwardly oriented teeth (22). It will be appreciated that, due to the upward orientation of teeth (22) on left interlocking section (14), handle member (40) may be less likely to affect the functioning of zipper (10) during use of handle member (40). In other words, if handle member (40) were secured to right interlocking section (12) having downwardly oriented teeth (22), forces exerted during carrying of bag (30) through use of handle member (40) may urge teeth (22) to disengage, thereby urging separation of interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, this phenomenon may not occur at all, and there may be no risk thereof whatsoever. Alternatively, zipper (10) and/or handle member (40) may be configured such that use of handle member (40) has no effect on the performance or functioning of zipper (10), regardless of where or how handle member (40) is positioned.

Similarly, the fact that handle member (40) of the present example is secured to left interlocking section (14), which lacks hinge (24), may have some performance-related significance. Of course, handle member (40) may alternatively be secured to right interlocking section (12), which has hinge (24). It will also be appreciated that the relative positioning of handle member (40) and a hinge (24) may have no significance whatsoever.

Handle member (40) of the present example has a pair of handle openings (42) formed therethrough. Each handle opening (42) is dimensioned such that a person may insert his or her hand through the handle opening (42) to lift, move, or otherwise handle bag (30). While two handle openings (42) are shown, handle member (40) may comprise any other number of handle openings (42), including but not limited to one or three. Handle member (40) further comprises a handle flange (44), by which handle member (40) is secured to left interlocking section (14).

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, handle member (40) has a bend (46) between handle flange (44) and handle opening (42). During use of handle member (40) in this embodiment, handle member (40) is rotated upward toward slider (16) for carrying bag (30), such that bend (46) is relatively straightened. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, the opposite side of handle flange (44) is secured to left interlocking section (14), such that handle member (40) is not bent between handle flange (44) and handle opening (42) prior to use of handle member (40). During use of handle member (40) in this embodiment, handle member (40) is rotated upward toward slider (16) for carrying bag (30), such that a bend is formed in handle member (40) between handle flange (44) and handle opening (42). Other suitable configurations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Handle member (40) may be secured to interlocking section (12 or 14) and/or bag wall (32 or 34) using any suitable technique. By way of example only, handle member (40) may be secured using adhesives, epoxies, stitching (e.g. sewing or ultrasonic stitching), heat-sealing, press-sealing, cold welding, pressure bonding, double-sided tape, co-extrusion, or any other technique. In one embodiment, handle member (40) is secured to interlocking section (12 or 14) by being co-extruded with interlocking section (12 or 14). In this embodiment, handle member is thus secured to interlocking section (12 or 14) as they are both formed.

In addition, handle member (40) may be formed using any suitable technique, including but not limited to extrusion, molding, stamping, or any other technique. Similarly, handle openings (42) may be formed in handle member (40) by any suitable technique, including but not limited to molding, stamping, etc. In one embodiment, handle openings (42) are initially defined by perforations or similar features in handle member (40), such that material must be removed by a consumer prior to the first use of handle member (40). Other suitable techniques for making handle member (40), making handle openings (42), and securing handle member (40) to a component of bag (30) and/or zipper (10) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In another embodiment, handle member (40) is co-extruded with left interlocking section (14), such that handle member (40) and left interlocking section (14) comprise a homogenous continuum of material. In this or other embodiments, handle flange (44) may be eliminated.

In the present example, handle member (40) comprises a handle end (48), which is secured to left bag wall (34). In this example, the technique used for securing handle end (48) to left bag wall (34) permits handle end (48) to be removed from left bag wall (34) with relative ease. For instance, handle end (48) may be secured to left bag wall (34) with sufficient strength to minimize undesired movement of handle member (40) during processing and/or initial handling of bag (30), yet with sufficient weakness to permit a consumer to remove handle end (48) from left bag wall (34) with relative ease and without causing damage to left bag wall (34) upon initial use of handle member (40). By way of example only, handle end (48) may be secured to left bag wall (34) with a rubber cement, a pressure sensitive adhesive, hook-and-pile fasteners, or using any other technique. In another embodiment, handle end (48) and/or left bag wall (34) have one or more features (e.g., clasps, clips, hook-and-pile fasteners, tabs and slots, etc.) permitting handle end (48) to be re-secured to left bag wall (34) after use of handle member (40). Of course, handle end (48) or another component of handle member (40) may be secured to any other component of bag (30) and/or zipper (10), using any suitable technique, or may be not secured to anything at all.

In one embodiment, handle member (40) comprises a resilient material, such that handle member (40) is resiliently urged toward the downward orientation shown in FIGS. 1-4. In this embodiment, handle member (40) “snaps” or otherwise moves back downward after handle member (40) has been manipulated. Alternatively, handle member (40) may have any other properties, including but not limited to flexibility, malleability, or rigidity. In one embodiment, a hinge is positioned between handle flange (44) and a rigid remaining portion of handle member (40). In this embodiment, the hinge may comprise a mechanical hinge or a flexible, resilient, or malleable material that permits the rigid remaining portion of handle member (40) to rotate relative to handle flange (44). Other variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

It will be appreciated that the configuration of handle member (40) and zipper (10) in the present example is such that the presence of handle member (40) will not significantly interfere with or otherwise affect performance of slider (16) or other components of zipper (10). In addition, the presence of handle member (40) of the present example will not significantly affect performance of bag (30). In other words, handle member (40) of the present example does not require any openings to be formed in zipper (10) or bag (30), such that a seal of zipper (10) and bag (30) may be maintained despite the presence or use of handle member (40). Furthermore, handle member (40) may remain secured to bag (30) after bag (30) has been opened. Thus, handle member (40) may continue to be used during several if not all uses of bag (30). That is, handle member (40) of the present example is configured such that it does not need to be removed or otherwise compromised the first time the bag (30) is opened. Of course, as an alternative, handle member (40) may be configured such that handle member (40) is selectively removable from zipper (10) and/or bag (30).

As an alternative or supplement to handle member (40), one or more discrete handle members (50) may be used, such as those shown in FIG. 4. In this embodiment, handle members (50) each comprise a handle opening (52) and a handle flange (54). All of the other features and variations discussed above with respect to handle member (40) may also apply to handle members (50), the only significant difference being that handle member (40) is applied as a continuous elongate strip, whereas handle members (50) have a lesser length and are applied separately.

It will be appreciated that handle member (40 and/or 50) may serve a variety of purposes in addition to providing an instrument for lifting, carrying, or otherwise handling bag (30). For instance, print or printed material may be applied to handle member (40 and/or 50). Similarly, handle member (40 and/or 50) may comprise a removable coupon or other promotional material. Still other possible uses for handle member (40 and/or 50) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that it may be desirable to provide some kind of assurance or indication as to whether a zipper (10) has been previously opened. In other words, it may be desirable to provide a device that is configured to show whether a zipper (10) and/or bag (30) has been tampered with. As used herein, the term “tamper evidence device,” including its variants, shall be read to include any feature, technique, and/or structure that is configured to provide evidence or indication that a bag (30) has been opened or otherwise tampered with. As used herein, the term “tamper” and its variants shall be read to include, but need not be limited to, an act of opening a bag (30) substantially or completely and/or gaining substantial or full access to its contents. Various exemplary devices for providing tamper evidence are discussed below. In these examples, the various tamper evidence devices include some type of seal that must be breached when the bag (30) is first opened completely (e.g., the first time complete access to the contents of bag (30) is gained). It will be appreciated, however, that the devices described hereafter are merely exemplary, and that tamper evidence may be provided by a variety of alternative devices. It will also be appreciated that the following examples and/or alternatives thereof may be used in isolation or in combination with one another. In addition, while tamper devices disclosed herein may provide tamper evidence, such devices may also provide other functionality and benefits not explicitly discussed herein.

In FIGS. 2 and 3, a membrane (26) is positioned adjacent each interlocking section (12, 14). In the present example, membrane (26) comprises a strip of a plastic material. Alternatively, membrane (26) may comprise any other material or combination of materials, including but not limited to fabric, paper, foil, metal, and the like. In one embodiment, membrane (26) comprises a substantially transparent material, while each interlocking section (12, 14) comprises a substantially opaque material. Of course, membrane (26), right interlocking section (12), and/or left interlocking section (14) may have any other property, including but not limited to transparency, translucency, and/or opaqueness, color variations, including combinations thereof. In the present example, the wall thickness of membrane (26) is thinner than the wall thickness of interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, membrane (26) may alternatively be the same thickness as interlocking sections (12, 14) or thicker than interlocking sections (12, 14). Membrane (26) may be secured to interlocking sections (12, 14) or walls (32, 34) via any suitable technique, including but not limited to heat-sealing, stitching, adhesives, press-sealing, cold welding, pressure bonding, double-sided tape, and the like. In another embodiment, membrane (26) is extruded with interlocking sections (12, 14), such that membrane (26) and interlocking sections (12, 14) comprise a homogenous continuum of material. In yet another embodiment, instead of being secured to interlocking sections (12, 14), membrane (26) is secured to walls (32, 34) of bag (30). In still another embodiment, membrane (26) is secured to interlocking sections (12, 14), and walls (32, 34) are secured to membrane (26). Other suitable configurations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Membrane (26) of the present example is configured such that, when bag (30) is first opened, membrane (26) must be broken, torn, or otherwise breached in order to reach the contents of bag (30). Initial breach of membrane (26) may be facilitated by providing a perforation (28) or other weakened feature in membrane (26). In one embodiment, membrane (26) includes a central, longitudinal perforation (28) along its length. In another embodiment, membrane (26) includes a longitudinal perforation along its junction with each interlocking section (12, 14). In still another embodiment, membrane (26) includes a longitudinal perforation along its junction with wall (32 and/or 34) of bag (30). In yet another embodiment, a string, tab, or the like may be pulled to rip membrane (26). Still other ways of facilitating breach of membrane (26) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In another embodiment (not depicted), interlocking sections (12, 14) include a plurality of intermittent spot seals. The spot seals join right interlocking section (12) with left interlocking section (14). The spot seals may be provided by any suitable technique, including but not limited to heat-sealing, ultrasonic stitching, adhesives, press-sealing, cold welding, pressure bonding, double-sided tape, and the like. In this example, the spot seals are positioned below teeth (22) (i.e. between teeth (22) and bag (30)). However, it will be appreciated that spot seals may be positioned above teeth (22) (“external”) in addition to or as an alternative to being positioned below teeth (22) (“internal”). Similarly, spot seals may be provided in bag (30). In the present example, when bag (30) is first opened, the spot seals must be breached in order to gain full access to the contents of bag (30). It will be appreciated that such breach may be accomplished simply by pulling interlocking sections (12, 14) apart with sufficient force to break the spot seals. In one embodiment, the spot seals break without compromising the wall integrity of interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, the spot seals need not comprise “spots” per se, and may comprise any suitable pattern, including but not limited to a continuous, longitudinal weld line along the length of interlocking sections (12,14) and/or walls (32, 34) of bag (30).

In addition to or as an alternative to having interlocking sections (12, 14) comprising one or more tamper evidence devices, bag (30) may comprise a tamper evidence device. In one embodiment (not depicted), bag (30) has a plurality of intermittent seals. In this example, each seal joins an inner portion of right wall (32) of bag (30) with an inner portion of left wall (34) of bag (30). In the present example, the inner portions of right wall (32) and left wall (34) comprise a plastic material, and each seal is provided by heating the plastic material. In another embodiment, each seal is provided by an adhesive, such as a glue. It will be appreciated that a seal may extend substantially the length of walls (32, 34). In yet another embodiment, the seal comprises a plurality of discrete spot seals. Thus, the seal may be considered a variation of the spot seals, but the same is formed in bag (30) instead of the interlocking sections (12, 14). Still other ways of providing the seal will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

If used, a seal may be provided along at least a substantial portion of the length of bag (30), as a continuous line, as a pattern, as a broken line, or in any other suitable configuration. It will also be appreciated that, where walls (32, 34) of bag (30) comprise a plurality of layers, the seal may join the innermost layers only, or the innermost layers in addition to other layers of the plurality. As with membrane (26) and the spot seals in interlocking sections (12, 14), the seal may be breached the first time full access to contents of bag (30) is gained by pulling interlocking sections (12, 14) and/or walls (32, 34) of bag (30) apart with sufficient force. One advantage of the seal may arise during the filling process. Bags (30) are often filled from the bottom after interlocking sections (12,14) are affixed to the bag (30). The process of filling can introduce significant loads and could compromise a zipper (10) seal if the load is introduced directly. Intermediary seals may absorb the filling load instead of zipper (10). While a few seals may break, the rest of the seals may remain intact. Of course, the seals may be formed after a bag (30) is filled, or this advantage may otherwise be illusory or not obtained.

In yet another embodiment of a tamper evidence device (not depicted), prior to being secured to bag (30), flange regions (11) at the bottom of each interlocking section (12, 14) are joined together along the length of interlocking sections (12, 14), resulting in a tack being provided at the bottom of a “V”-like configuration. The tack may be effected by any suitable technique, including but not limited to heat sealing, spot welding, stitching (e.g., sewing, ultrasonic stitching, and the like), adhesives, or any other technique. When the tack has been provided, interlocking sections (12, 14) are then folded, such that the tack is moved upward, resulting flange regions (11) forming a “W”-like configuration. In this “W”-like configuration, an upturned portion of right interlocking section (12) is adjacent the tack, as is an upturned portion of left interlocking section (14). The upturned portion of right interlocking section (12) defines a right valley with the remainder of right interlocking section (12); while the upturned portion of left interlocking section (14) defines a left valley with the remainder of left interlocking section (14). In the present example, walls (32, 34) of bag (30) are secured to respective upturned portions of interlocking sections (12, 14). Such securing may be accomplished by any of the aforementioned techniques, or any alternative technique. Of course, walls (32, 34) may be alternatively secured to the remainder of interlocking sections (12, 14) (e.g., to the outside of interlocking sections (12, 14)). In any event, the tack and/or the upturned portion of at least one of the interlocking sections (12, 14) in the present example must be breached upon initial access to contents of bag (30), such that the tack and/or the upturned portion of at least one of the interlocking sections (12, 14) provide a tamper evidence device. It will be appreciated that the tack and/or any part(s) of the upturned portion of at least one of the interlocking sections (12,14) may be perforated or otherwise weakened to facilitate such breach. It will also be appreciated that an adhesive, such as glue by way of example only, may be applied in the above-mentioned valleys. Where an adhesive is applied in the valleys, the upturned portion of at least one of the interlocking sections (12, 14) may be adhered to its respective, adjacent interlocking section (12, 14) wall. Still other suitable configurations for an embodiment having a tack will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

Alternatively, interlocking sections (12, 14) may be extruded as a single piece (not depicted), either in the “V”-like configuration discussed above, in the “W”-like configuration discussed above, or in any other configuration. By way of example only, where interlocking sections (12, 14) are extruded as a single piece, the unified interlocking sections (12, 14) may be joined to bag (30) while they are in a “V”-like configuration. In the region analogous to that where the tack would be if interlocking sections (12, 14) were not extruded as a single piece, a perforation or other weakening feature may be present to facilitate separation of interlocking sections (12, 14). Of course, any other techniques, features, and configurations may be used.

In another embodiment (not depicted), a tamper evidence device comprises a drape. A drape may be positioned externally over the tops of interlocking sections (12, 14). Alternatively, a drape may be positioned externally over slider (16) only. A drape may longitudinally extend along the entire length of interlocking sections (12,14), or one or more portions thereof. A drape may longitudinally terminate adjacent to or proximate to slider (16), or may cover slider (16). A drape may extend downwardly such that it terminates adjacent to interlocking sections (12, 14), such that it terminates adjacent to walls (32, 34) of bag (30), or combinations thereof. A drape may be secured to interlocking sections (12,14) and/or walls (32, 34) by any of the aforementioned securing techniques or any alternative techniques. Other suitable configurations for a drape will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. By way of example only, a drape may comprise tape, film, paper, combinations thereof, or any other suitable material(s). In the present example, the drape must be breached on order to initially disengage teeth (22). Such breach may be facilitated by one or more perforated regions in the drape, by a string or tab that may be pulled to rip the drape, or by any other suitable structure or technique.

In addition to or as an alternative to having interlocking sections (12, 14) and/or bag (30) comprise one or more tamper evidence devices, slider (16) may comprise a tamper evidence device. Such slider (16) devices may provide an initial resistance to movement of slider (16). As used herein, particularly when referring to slider (16), the phrase “initial resistance” shall be understood to include a resistance encountered when slider (16) is slid for the first time. Such initial resistance will be greater than the resistance encountered during subsequent movement of slider (16). In other words, an initial resistance may provide an individual with tactile feedback indicating whether the slider (16) has been initially moved. The amount of initial resistance may be great enough to prevent movement of slider (16) during general handling of the container, but small enough to be overcome without causing substantial damage to slider (16), interlocking sections (12, 14), and/or the container. In certain embodiments, a tamper evidence device may provide a relatively high resistance to initial movement of slider (16) (e.g., relative to resistance encountered during subsequent movement of slider (16)), while not substantially affecting subsequent movement of slider (16).

In one embodiment, slider (16) has a transverse opening formed therethrough. The opening is also formed through interlocking sections (12, 14). In one embodiment, the opening is formed by the insertion of a hot needle-like structure through slider (16) and adjacent portions of interlocking sections (12, 14) after slider (16) has been mounted to interlocking sections (12, 14). In this embodiment, material defining the opening is slightly melted, resulting in slight deformation of the interlocking sections (12,14) adjacent to the opening. It will be appreciated that such melting and deformation may provide an initial resistance to movement of slider (16). In other words, the melting and deformation of material may provide a seal within the opening, and the breaking of such a seal will be required to move slider (16) for the first time. The breaking of the seal will provide the initial resistance, thereby indicating that slider (16) is being moved for the first time. In the present example, subsequent movement of slider (16) will not be substantially affected by the opening or the melting/deformation resulting from the formation of the opening.

In another embodiment, similar melting/deformation is obtained by a the use of a laser to form the opening. Alternatively, any other source of focusable heat or other energy may be used to form the opening with melting-type deformation.

In another embodiment, an opening is formed by a member having a hook-like structure at its end being inserted through slider (16) and pulled back through the opening. Accordingly, the hook-like structure will pass through adjacent portions of interlocking sections (12, 14) as well. It will be appreciated that, during withdrawal of the hook-like structure, the hook-like structure will pull material back through the opening, which will result in deformation of the material. The presence of this deformed material within the opening will provide a seal within the opening similar to the seal provided by insertion of a hot needle-like structure through slider (16). Accordingly, the breaking of the seal will provide the above-described initial resistance, thereby indicating that slider (16) is being moved for the first time. Subsequent movement of slider (16) will not be substantially affected by the opening or the pull-through deformation resulting from the formation of the opening. While a hook-like structure has been described for obtaining the pull-trough deformation, it will be appreciated that any other structure or technique may be used to effect pull-through and/or push-through deformation.

In yet another embodiment, a member is inserted into the opening to provide the initial resistance. In one embodiment, the inserted member is breakable, such that the inserted member is broken when slider (16) is first slid to disengage teeth (22). In this embodiment, this breaking will provide the initial resistance, while the member will not substantially affect subsequent movement of slider. In another embodiment, the inserted member is removable, such that the inserted member must be removed before slider (16) may be moved. In this embodiment, the inserted member and/or slider (16) may be configured such that once the inserted member is removed, it cannot be re-inserted. Other features and variations of an inserted member and/or the opening to provide a tamper evidence device will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In still another embodiment, an adhesive is placed on slider (16) and/or on interlocking sections (12, 14) near slider (16). In this embodiment, the adhesive provides the initial resistance to movement of slider (16). The properties of the adhesive are such that, when slider (16) is moved with sufficient force to break the seal or bond provided by the adhesive, damage to slider (16) and/or interlocking sections (12, 14) will not result. For instance, the adhesive may comprise a rubbery glue-like material. Other suitable adhesives for this embodiment and variations thereof will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In another embodiment, initial resistance to movement of slider (16) is provided by sealing at least a portion of teeth (22) together. For instance, a longitudinal membrane may be used to join the tops of interlocking sections (12, 14) in the vertical region between teeth (22) and slider (16). This membrane and slider (16) may be configured such that movement of slider (16) is required to break the membrane. Before and during this breaking movement of slider (16), however, the membrane provides resistance to movement of slider. In the present example, the membrane may be longitudinally perforated or otherwise weakened to facilitate breaking of the membrane by slider (16). Alternatively, an adhesive may be used to join interlocking sections (12, 14) together in the region between the teeth (22) slider (16). Such an adhesive may provide initial resistance, yet have no significant effect on performance of slider (16) and/or zipper (10) during subsequent use. Still other membrane-slider or adhesive features, variations, and combinations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In still another embodiment, an opening is formed through interlocking sections (12, 14) proximate to slider (16), but not through slider (16). Such an opening may be formed by any suitable technique, including but not limited to insertion of a hot needle-like structure, insertion of a hook-like structure, or any other technique. It will be appreciated that such an opening formed through interlocking sections (12, 14) may provide features and advantages similar to those provided by having a similar opening formed through slider (16). Of course, there may be additional advantages, which will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

While the foregoing tamper evidence devices have been described as providing a way in which tampering may be detected, it will be appreciated that such devices may provide other uses as well. By way of example only, it will be appreciated that during the normal course of handling of a given container, for instance from the time it is filled to the time it reaches a shelf in a retail setting, the handling may urge slider (16) to move, interlocking sections (12, 14) to separate, or lead to other potentially undesirable results. The foregoing tamper evidence devices may provide resistance to those and other results. For instance, and without limitation, an opening formed through slider (16) and/or interlocking sections (12, 14) may prevent inadvertent movement of slider (16) during handling.

Of course, the foregoing examples are merely illustrative, and are not intended to be limiting in any way.

Having shown and described various embodiments and concepts of the invention, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein can be accomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. Several of such potential alternatives, modifications, and variations have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing teachings. Accordingly, the invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as may fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings. 

1. A container system, comprising: (a) a container, comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the first side wall and second side wall define an opening, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall each have an inner surface and an outer surface; (b) a zipper positioned at the container opening, the zipper comprising: (i) a first interlocking section having an inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more teeth, (ii) a second interlocking section having an inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more teeth, and (iii) a slider positioned adjacent each of the first interlocking section and the second interlocking section, wherein the zipper is operable to selectively provide a seal of the container opening upon engagement between the one or more teeth of the first interlocking section and the one or more teeth of the second interlocking section; and (c) a handle member.
 2. The container system of claim 1, wherein the outer surface of the first side wall of the container is secured to the inner surface of the first interlocking section, wherein the outer surface of the second side wall of the container is secured to the inner surface of the second interlocking section.
 3. The container system of claim 1, wherein the handle member is secured to the outer surface of one of the first interlocking section or second interlocking section.
 4. The container system of claim 1, further comprising a membrane secured to the inner surface of each of the first interlocking section and the second interlocking section.
 5. The container system of claim 4, wherein the first and second sides of the container are secured to the first and second interlocking sections at respective container securing locations on the first and second interlocking sections, wherein the membrane is secured to the first and second interlocking sections at respective membrane securing locations on the first and second interlocking sections.
 6. The container system of claim 5, wherein each of the respective membrane securing locations is positioned between the one or more teeth and the container securing location of each of the first and second interlocking sections.
 7. The container system of claim 4, wherein the membrane is not resealable.
 8. The container system of claim 1, wherein the handle member comprises a flange, wherein the flange is secured to one of the first interlocking section or the second interlocking section.
 9. The container system of claim 1, wherein the handle member is resiliently urged to maintain a downward orientation.
 10. The container system of claim 1, wherein an end of the handle member is removably secured to a portion of the container.
 11. The container system of claim 1, wherein the handle member comprises a plurality of handle openings.
 12. The container system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of handle members, wherein each handle member has a handle opening.
 13. The container system of claim 1, further comprising a tamper evidence device.
 14. The container system of claim 1, wherein the handle member comprises a bend positioned adjacent a handle flange.
 15. The container system of claim 1, wherein the handle member is adhered to one of the first interlocking section or the second interlocking section.
 16. The container system of claim 1, wherein the handle member is not sewed to the zipper.
 17. The container system of claim 1, wherein the container may be opened without removing the handle member.
 18. A container system, comprising: (a) a bag, the bag comprising an opening defined by a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall each have an inner surface and an outer surface; (b) a zipper positioned adjacent the bag opening, the zipper comprising: (i) a first interlocking section having an inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more teeth adjacent the inner surface, (ii) a second interlocking section having an inner surface, an outer surface, and one or more teeth adjacent the inner surface, wherein the zipper is configured to provide a seal upon engagement between the one or more teeth of the first interlocking section and the one or more teeth of the second interlocking section, and (iii) a slider, wherein the slider is configured to engage and disengage the teeth of the first and second interlocking sections; and (c) one or more handle members secured to at least one of the first interlocking section, the second interlocking section, or the bag.
 19. A method for preparing a container system, the method comprising: (a) providing a reclosable seal, the reclosable seal comprising a pair of interlocking sections, each interlocking section having teeth, wherein the teeth of one of the interlocking sections are configured to engage with the teeth of the other interlocking section; and (b) securing at least one handle member to the reclosable seal, wherein the act of securing at least one handle member comprises securing at least one of the handle members to one of the interlocking sections.
 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising securing the reclosable seal to a bag. 